Order of Christian Initiation (R.C.I.A.)

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) also known as Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is the process through which adults explore and, if they choose, eventually become Catholic, whether through Baptism or being received into full communion with the Church.  Through RCIA(OCIA)  you will have an opportunity to ask questions in a  relaxed environment alongside others who are on the same journey, learning the fundamental beliefs and  practices of the Catholic faith and what it means to live as a Catholic.

OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation) is an opportunity for those from the ages of 7 years and older who:

¨  have not been baptized.

¨ have been baptized, but have little affiliation with, and/or experience in the Catholic Religion.

¨ want to learn about the Catholic Faith.

Please be assured there will be no high-pressured sales pitch! OCIA is like a house with an open door. We hold the door open, but the decision to enter is left up to you. We invite you to speak with us, with no strings attached, to see if OCIA  is right for you. We are here for you. 

Join us on Mondays in the St. Joseph Room of the St. Enda of Aran Formation Center.

For more information and schedule information, contact Denise Pressley at 904.471.5364 X112 or dre@saccfl.org

Online Catechism From USCCB

Process of Journeying

• INQUIRY

Initial period of questioning and inquiring about Catholic faith, beliefs, the Mass, Mary and the Saints, the bible, traditions…

• CATECHUMENATE

The period in which the participant has committed to continue this journey and a life in Christ.  The participant develops his or her faith and is being ‘catechized’ – learning the basic points about the Catholic faith and life.

• PURIFICATION /LENT

Time of preparation for Baptism, or preparing to be received into communion with the Catholic Church.  The Church helps the participant focus and intensify his or her faith  in preparation for a life with Christ and the Catholic Church.

• MYSTAGOGY

Time to look toward future life in the Catholic tradition.